“Dad.”
“Al.”
Harley’s and Selina’s voices hissed.
“Think about it. She’s one of his players. Coach Mae stuck her neck out to get Trip that coaching job instead of community service for the damage he did in the accident. It was also to help repair the damage he did to his image. I was there when Coach Mae gave him the contract saying he wouldn’t have any dalliances with the players on the team.”
“We’re just friends,” I stated, feeling the need to stick up for myself.
“If you’re his friend you’d see how bad it is for you to be here. Anyone could take this out of proportion and it would damage his fragile reputation.”
“And you’re risking quite a lot yourself for being his friend. You could be kicked off the team and have other consequences, right?” Al added as Gwen nodded.
“I didn’t mean to cause trouble. I’m really just his friend. And I do want the best for him. Can you please tell Trip something came up, and I had to leave? Tell Bruce I said he did terrific today.”
“McKenna, wait.” Harley put her hand on my leg to stop me from getting up.
“It’s okay, Harley. It was nice meeting you all.”
I slunk around the back so Trip wouldn’t witness my escape. My tears didn’t fall until the Uber dropped me off in front of my empty apartment.
Trip’s phone number flashed across my screen, but I sent it to voicemail. When it rang again I knew he wasn’t going to give up.
“Raine, what happened?”
“I had to go to the office. One of the girls called in and Doctor Bert needed me to fill in.”
“Are you sure?” he asked, sounding suspicious.
“Yeah, I have to go. My patient is here.”
“Do you want me to come by later?”
“Let me text you when I’m done. I don’t know how late I’ll be stuck at the office.”
“All right. I’m going out to lunch with my family and Bruce.”
“Have fun.” I clicked the phone off and snuggled under my blankets, wanting to sleep the rest of the day away. Wishing Renee were here so I could vent.
